Statistics from Australian Bureau of Agriculture, Resource Economics and Science (ABARES) reveal that the trade of Australian agricultural goods with the EU is underdeveloped.

“In 2016-2017 Australia exported about $3.8 billion worth of produce to the EU, while we imported agricultural goods worth more than $4.7 billion," Ms Simson said.

“This is a significant deviation from Australia’s usual agricultural trade pattern, with Australia being a net food exporter with all other major markets. We have an opportunity now to increase our exports to the EU."

Ms Simson said Australia’s food and fibre was perfectly matched to the discerning European market.

“Our high quality agricultural products can cater for the European consumer, a consumer who is particularly concerned about food and fibre provenance, food safety, animal health and environmental sustainability.”

Ms Simson said continued improved market access with a variety of trading partners was crucial to Australian farmers.

"Australia exports about 75% of its agricultural produce and our farmers are amongst the least subsidised in the world.

“The liberalisation of trade and securing preferential market access is therefore a priority for the NFF.”

Ms Simson said Australian farmers were already benefiting from preferential market access achieved through recent FTAs with China, Japan and Korea.

“We’re also hopeful that the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP 11) will soon be ratified and begin to deliver benefits to farmers.

“Liberalised is good for our farmers, our regional communities and the national economy as a whole," Ms Simson said.